Falkirk Steeple

Although the current structure dates from 1814 and is A-listed, the Town Steeple (or simply The Steeple) has been a landmark on Falkirk's High Street since the late 15th C. The current structure dates from 1814 and comprises a six-stage tower, some 42.6m (140 feet) in height and 6.7m (22 feet) square at ground level, topped by a spire. It was designed by David Hamilton (1768 - 1843) to reflect considerable civic pride and was constructed using sandstone from a quarry at nearby Brightons. The third, fourth and fifth stages are of distinctly different architectural styles to the rather plain first and second, which are separated by only a narrow string course. The third stage is Greek Doric, the fourth Italianate, with clock faces on each side, the fifth (the belfry) Ionic and the final stage a stepped base for the spire. In 1927 the Steeple lost its spire when it was struck by lightning but it was soon re-built.

The 15th C. tower was replaced by another in 1697, which served as the town's tolbooth and gaol. The present building still contains two cells on an upper level. These are rather more secure than the cells found in the previous building, from which escapes were recorded.

The Steeple is owned by Falkirk Council and now serves as the Box Office for Falkirk Community Trust.


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